Notre Dame Fighting Irish Betting Preview

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish are 11-14 (5-9) this year after they lost to Louisville by a score of 75-60 in their last game. Notre Dame trailed 35-28 at halftime and allowed 40 more points in the second half in the loss. The Fighting Irish shot 36.4% from the field, 27.3% on three-pointers, and 87.5% on free throws in the game. Markus Burton led Notre Dame with 22 points and four assists, while Tae Davis added 15 points and three rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Fighting Irish defeated Boston College by a score of 97-94 but did lose to Virginia Tech by a score of 65-63 before that. Notre Dame has lost four of their last five games and they are currently 13th in the ACC standings with a 5-9 record. Notre Dame has scored 73.2 points per game and they have allowed 70.9 points per game, while also averaging 35.5 rebounds and 11.8 assists per game this season. Markus Burton is averaging 21.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game, while Tae Davis is averaging 15.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game this year. Notre Dame is shooting 45.5% from the field, 74.4% on free throws, and 36.5% on three-pointers this season. 

SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs are 19-6 (10-4) this season after they lost to Wake Forest by a score of 77-66 in their last game. SMU led 34-32 at halftime, but they were outscored 45-32 in the second half for the loss. The Mustangs shot 36.1% from the field, 22.9% on three-pointers, and 63.6% on free throws in the game. Chuck Harris led SMU with 15 points and six assists, while Kario Oquendo added 13 points and nine rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Mustangs defeated Pittsburgh by a score of 83-63 and Virginia Tech by a score of 81-75. SMU has won five of their last six games and they are currently fifth in the ACC standings with a 10-4 record. SMU has scored 82.1 points per game and they have allowed 71.4 points per game, while also averaging 39.7 rebounds and 16.4 assists per game this season. Boopie Miller is averaging 13.4 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, while Chuck Harris is averaging 12.5 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game this year. SMU is shooting 47.8% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 38.2% on three-pointers this season. After this game, SMU will meet Clemson, Cal, Stanford, Syracuse, and Florida State.

Why SMU will beat Notre Dame

• SMU has won eight of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Notre Dame has lost four of its last five games.
• SMU has won the first half in eight of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Notre Dame’s last 10 night games against Conference opponents at Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center have produced a total of 140 or fewer points.
• Eighteen of SMU’s last 22 night games have produced a total of 146+ points.

Notre Dame vs SMU Prediction 

SMU comes into this matchup trying to stay near the top in the ACC standings, but they are coming off of a loss in their last game and will be on the road here. The Mustangs are shooting nearly 48% from the field this year and they have allowed 65 points or fewer in three of their last five games. Notre Dame has lost four of their last five games and they are just 2-3 in their last five home games. The Fighting Irish are shooting 45.5% from the field this season and they have scored 63 points or fewer in four of their last five. Take SMU to cover on the road here. 

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Wake Forest Demon Deacons Betting Preview

The Demon Deacons have been quite the consistent team so far this year. They’ve got just one instance of consecutive losses in the books. Wake forest began on a 9-4 run over their first 13 outings. The losses in that time were versus Xavier, Florida, Texas A&M and Clemson. Otherwise it was wins over Coppin State, North Carolina A&T, Michigan, USC Upstate, Western Carolina, Detroit, Minnesota, Boston College and James Madison in that time. The Deacons would then take out Syracuse, NC State, Miami, Stanford, Virginia Tech and North Carolina in the next six games. Since then it’s been a spotty 3-3 run, though. The losses have come to Duke, Louisville and Florida State in that time. Otherwise it’s been wins over Pittsburgh, Stanford and California for Wake Forest, giving them an 18-7 record through 25 games so far.

In their matchup with Florida State on Wednesday, the Demon Deacons hit a 35-21 advantage in the first half and were looking good. Wake Forest was then outscored 51-35 the rest of the way however, resulting in a rough loss 72-70 in the end. Cameron Hildreth led the team with his 22 points, two rebounds and two assists. Hunter Sallis added 20 points with six boards and three assists, while Efton Reid had 10 rebounds, one assist and eight points. The only bench scoring came from Juke Harris with his seven points and two rebounds in 15 minutes of work.

SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

Over on the SMU side, they’ve been similarly consistent so far this year. The Mustangs have just one instance of consecutive losses as well during a pretty nice campaign. SMU went 11-2 in their first 13 outings with losses to only Butler and Mississippi State. The wins otherwise were over Tarleton State, Florida A&M, UNC Greensboro, Prairie View A&M, Cal Baptist, Washington State, Alabama State, Virginia, LSU, Boston College and Longwood. Following consecutive losses to Duke and North Carolina, the Mustangs beat Georgia Tech, Virginia and Miami in succession before a loss to Louisville. Since then it’s been five straight wins for SMU. Those have come courtesy of NC State, California, Stanford, Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh in succession. That gives the Mustangs a 19-5 record through their first 24 games so far.

Matched up against Pittsburgh on Tuesday, the Mustangs were ahead 43-27 by the break. SMU hit a 40-36 run the rest of the way and took the eventual win 83-63 without too much difficulty. SMU’s leading starter was Samet Yigitoglu with 17 points, 10 rebounds, three assists, one steal and one block for a double-double. Kario Oquendo also scored 17 points off the bench alongside four rebounds in 28 minutes of action. both Matt Cross (five rebounds; two assists) and Boopie Miller (six rebounds; four assists; three steals) added 13 points each.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last eight games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Wake Forest has lost each of its last five road games following a home loss.
• SMU has won the first half in each of its last 12 games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the Wake Forest Demon Deacons will win

• Wake Forest has won each of its last eight day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Wake Forest has won the first half in each of its last five road games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

SMU vs Wake Forest Prediction

I’ll stay with the Mustangs. This should be a pretty fun matchup regardless, though. SMU is coming off a pretty solid win over a decent Pitt team, bagging a nice 55.8 percent shooting with a 40-35 rebounding edge in the home victory. The Mustangs gave up just 31.8 percent shooting on the other side, but did get a little careless with the ball on 15 turnovers for 12 Panthers points. Still, SMU is looking good during this five-game win streak, and they’ve hit 81 or more points in three straight outings.

As for Wake Forest, they’re scoring well themselves lately with 70 or more in four straight (a 3-1 run). It wouldn’t be surprising to see a high-total finish in this one, but in the end I like SMU a little better cover-wise.

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs are 18-5 (9-3) this year after they defeated Virginia Tech by a score of 81-75 in their last game. SMU was tied at 35 at halftime, but they scored 46 points in the second half to get the win. The Mustangs shot 47.5% from the field, 45.5% on three-pointers, and 72.2% on free throws in the game. Matt Cross led SMU with 21 points and seven rebounds, while Chuck Harris added 20 points and three rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Mustangs defeated Stanford by a score of 85-61 and California by a score of 76-65. SMU has won seven of their last eight games and they are currently fifth in the ACC standings with a 9-3 record. SMU has scored 82.8 points per game and they have allowed 71.5 points per game, while also averaging 39.7 rebounds and 16.3 assists per game this season. Boopie Miller is averaging 13.4 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, while Chuck Harris is averaging 12.7 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game this year. SMU is shooting 48% from the field, 73.6% on free throws, and 38.9% on three-pointers this season. 

Pittsburgh Panthers Betting Preview

The Pittsburgh Panthers are 14-9 (5-7) this season after they lost to North Carolina by a score of 67-66 in their last game. Pittsburgh trailed 35-32 at halftime, but they did have a late lead, before allowing UNC to hit the winning shot with under a minute left. The Panthers shot 42.3% from the field, 47.1% on three-pointers, and 77.8% on free throws in the game. Cameron Corhen led Pittsburgh with 17 points and two rebounds, while Jaland Lowe added 15 points and three rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Panthers lost to Virginia by a score of 73-57 and Wake Forest by a score of 76-74. Pittsburgh has lost seven of their last nine games and they are currently tied for ninth in the ACC standings with a 5-7 record. Pittsburgh has scored 78.0 points per game and they have allowed 70.8 points per game, while also averaging 33.5 rebounds and 13.6 assists per game this season. Jaland Lowe is averaging 16.9 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, while Ishmael Leggett is averaging 16.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game this year. Pittsburgh is shooting 46.5% from the field, 79.3% on free throws, and 35.9% on three-pointers this season. After this game, Pitt will head home for a matchup with Miami.

Why SMU will beat Pittsburgh

• SMU has won 14 of its last 15 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Pittsburgh has lost four of its last five road games.
• SMU has won the first half in each of its last 11 games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) against non-AP-ranked opponents.

SMU vs Pittsburgh Prediction 

SMU comes into this matchup on a four-game winning streak and they will be at home for this game. The Mustangs are shooting 48% from the field this year and they have scored at least 76 points in three straight games. SMU has been one of the hottest teams in the ACC over the last month, but they have lost to Duke and Louisville at home in conference play. Pittsburgh is shooting 46.5% from the field this season and they have scored 66 and 57 points in their last two games. The Panthers have lost three games in a row and they have not played well in their last nine games. Take SMU to cover at home. 

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SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to build on their 85-61 win over Stanford last time out to improve to 17-5 on the year. After this game, SMU will head home for a matchup with Pitt.

Mustangs Win Three In A Row

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 14.3 PPG and 5.7 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.2 PPG and Matt Cross has 11 PPG with a team-high 8 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10.7 PPG with 3.7 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.7 PPG with 6.5 RPG and Yohan Traore has 7.9 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.6 PPG with 2.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.2 PPG on 48.2% shooting from the field, 38.3% from three, and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won 13 of its last 14 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Virginia Tech Recap

The Virginia Tech Hokies come into this one looking to build on a 75-74 win over Virginia last time out to improve to 10-12 on the year. After this game, Virginia Tech will take on Notre Dame, Virginia, and Boston College.

Hokies Win Back-To-Back Games

Tobi Lawal leads the Hokies in scoring and rebounding with 13 PPG and 6.7 RPG while Mylyjeal Poteat has 10 PPG with 3.8 RPG as the only other double-digit scorer for Virginia Tech up to this point in the year. Jaden Schutt also has 8.9 PPG with 3 RPG while Brandon Rechsteiner has 6.9 PPG with a team-high 3.1 APG to lead the Hokies in the assist department. Ben Burnham also added 7 PPG and 3.3 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Virginia Tech is averaging 70 PPG on 44.2% shooting from the field, 37.1% from three, and 71.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the Virginia Tech Hokies will win

• Virginia Tech has won each of its last seven home games following a road win.

Virginia Tech vs SMU Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I know Virginia Tech’s coming home off of back-to-back road wins, but I just don’t see the Hokies having the horses to hang with the Mustangs for a full 40 minutes at SMU’s pace. The Mustangs are a solid lineup that does a lot of things really well and they’re also really good at pushing the pace and making teams uncomfortable that aren’t equipped to make that change of pace and I don’t think that Virginia Tech can either. I’ll side with SMU in this one, laying the points on the road here.

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California Golden Bears Betting Preview

California has had quite the wild season so far. The Bears started out on a pretty great run, then ran into trouble in December and January. That said, things have been better in the win column lately. Cal fell to only Vanderbilt in their first seven games, beating Cal State Bakersfield, Cal Poly, USC, Air Force, Sac State, and Mercyhurst in that time. The Bears posted a rough 2-8 run over their next 10 games though, beating only Northwestern State and Virginia. otherwise, it was losses to Missouri, Stanford, Cornell, San Diego State, Pitt, Clemson, Virginia Tech, and North Carolina in that stretch. Since then California is 3-0. Those wins have come versus North Carolina State, Florida State, and Miami in succession, giving the Golden Bears an 11-9 overall record on the year and bringing them back above .500 overall.

In their latest matchup back on Saturday versus Miami, the Bears held a 47-39 edge at the break. California was outscored 40-32 from there, however, and needed overtime to power out a 98-94 victory at home. The Bears’ leading scorer was Jeremiah Wilkinson with 30 points and four rebounds. DJ Campbell added 22 points with seven boards and four assists with a pair of steals, while Jovan Blacksher chipped in with 11 points and three rebounds in 29 minutes.

SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

Over on the Mustangs’ side, they’ve done pretty great in the record column so far this season. SMU has a couple of brief instances of shaky play, but overall it’s been a flurry of Ws on the card. The Mustangs went 4-2 out of the gate in their first half-dozen outings, losing to Butler and Mississippi State with wins otherwise over Tarleton State, Florida A&M, UNC Greensboro, and Prairie View in that time. Wins over Cal Baptist, Washington State, Alabama State, Virginia, LSU, Boston College, and Longwood came in the next seven outings, then consecutive losses to Duke and North Carolina. SMU is 4-1 in their last five games with a lone loss to Louisville in that time. The wins otherwise have been versus Georgia Tech, Virginia, Miami, and NC State, giving the Mustangs a 15-5 overall record so far this season through 20 games.

Matched up against NC State in their Saturday outing, the Mustangs held a 34-26 edge after one half. SMU came out of the locker room to post a 31-29 advantage, finishing off a 63-57 win in the end. Leading the team in scoring was Samet Yigitoglu with 20 points and seven boards. Matt Cross doubled up with 11 points, 10 boards, and one assist, while Kario Oquendo led the bench scoring 13 points, seven rebounds, and one assist in 25 minutes.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won 11 of its last 12 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• California has lost four of its last five games following an overtime win.
• SMU has won the first half in each of its last nine games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the California Golden Bears will win

• The road team has won each of SMU’s last four games.
• The road team has won the first half in each of SMU’s last four games.

SMU vs California Prediction

I’ll stick with SMU. The Mustangs were able to fend off a middling NC State team in a road matchup during their last outing, posting 43.4 percent from the field and a nice 11-of-12 (91.7 percent) from the line. The 43-35 rebounding advantage and the 29.2 percent shooting allowed really helped, but SMU did get into some ball-control trouble. The Mustangs posted 15 turners for 12 Wolfpack points, but the W is what (mostly) counts. SMU has been below 68 points in four of their last seven games (a 4-3 run), and they can give up some sizable point totals to good offenses (like 89 versus Duke and 82 versus UNC).

That said, the Mustangs should be in control here during a comfortable home matchup. California comes in on a three-game win streak, but they had major issues (at home) against a struggling Miami team in their last game. SMU shouldn’t have a ton of issues in this one if all goes well.

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SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to bounce back from a 98-73 loss at home to Louisville last time out to fall to 14-5 on the year. After this game, SMU will head home for a matchup with Cal.

Mustangs Looking To Rebound

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 14.3 PPG and 5.7 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.2 PPG and Matt Cross has 11 PPG with a team-high 8 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10.7 PPG with 3.7 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.7 PPG with 6.5 RPG and Yohan Traore has 7.9 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.6 PPG with 2.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.2 PPG on 48.2% shooting from the field, 38.3% from three and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last six day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• NC State has lost five of its last six games.

NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack enter this game looking to rebound after another close loss, this one coming against Cal by a final score of 65-62. After this game, NC State will head on the road for a headline road game against Duke.

Wolfpack Lose Third Straight One Possession Game

Marcus Hill leads the Wolfpack in scoring with 13.2 PPG and 4 RPG while Jayden Taylor has 12.8 PPG as the lone pair of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season. Ben Middlebrooks has 9.5 PPG with 4.6 RPG and Dontrez Styles has 8.9 PPG with 4.5 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 8.5 PPG with a team-high 5.1 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.6 PPG with 2.7 RPG and a team-high 3.6 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 71.5 PPG on 45.3% shooting from the field, 31.5% from behind the arc and 70.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• NC State has won 10 of its last 11 games at Lenovo Center when playing with a rest advantage.

Total Points Facts

• Seven of SMU’s last eight games have produced a total of 149+ points.
• Five of NC State’s last six games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 137 or fewer points.

NC State vs SMU Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I know it could be tempting to take the free bucket with NC State as a home dog considering the close losses they’ve taken as of late, but the Mustangs are still the better team here and at a certain point, you have to wonder how many of those close losses NC State can endure before it really affects their performance. SMU is the better team by a fair margin here and I think the Mustangs take out the Wolfpack here. Give me SMU.

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Louisville Recap

The Louisville Cardinals come into this game looking to build on an 81-67 win over Virginia last time out to improve to 14-5 on the year. After this game, Louisville will head back home for a matchup with Wake Forest.

Cardinals Win 8^th In A Row

Chucky Hepburn leads the Cardinals in scoring and assists with 15.2 PPG and 5.8 APG along with 3.3 RPG and 2.6 SPG while Reyne Smith has 13.6 PPG with 3 RPG and Kasean Pryor has 12 PPG with 6.1 RPG but is expected to miss the rest of the season with an injury. Terrence Edwards Jr. has 13.5 PPG with 3.9 RPG and 2.2 APG and J’Vonne Hadley also has 11.8 PPG with a team-high 7.6 RPG to lead the Cardinals on the glass, also rounding out the group of double-digit scorers for Louisville so far this season. As a team, Louisville is averaging 78.4 PPG on 43.7% shooting from the field, 30.7% from three, and 73.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the Louisville Cardinals will win

• Louisville has won each of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• SMU has lost each of its last eight games against AP-ranked opponents.

SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game hoping to add to their 117-74 blowout win over Miami last time out to improve to 14-4 on the year. After this game, SMU will head on the road to take on NC State.

Mustangs Win Third In A Row

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 14.7 PPG and 6 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.4 PPG and Matt Cross has 10.6 PPG with a team-high 8 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10.4 PPG with 3.7 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.6 PPG with 6.6 RPG and Yohan Traore has 8.2 PPG with 4.4 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.6 PPG with 2.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.8 PPG on 48.6% shooting from the field, 38.6% from three, and 72.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won 10 of its last 11 night games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas).
• Louisville has lost 24 of its last 32 night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Louisville’s last six night games against Conference opponents has produced a total of 153 or fewer points.
• Seven of SMU’s last eight games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 151 or fewer points.

SMU vs Louisville Prediction

I’m with Louisville here. The Cardinals have really shown signs that they’ve improved in a lot of their recent games, as they’ve managed to go 4-0 SU in conference road games so far. I know the ACC may not be as strong as in past seasons, but there are still some tough teams to go through, and Louisville has shown they’re up to the task. I’m not all that enthused with SMU’s recent games and while they’ve been decent at home, catching the Cards in the underdog/coin-flip role is too good for me to pass on here. Give me Louisville.

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What an Awful Year for Miami

It has been an awful year for Miami and they just keep losing games. Two games ago against Wake Forest they lost 88-78 and in the last game against Duke they lost 89-54. At halftime against Duke they lost 50-26 and in the second half it was even wrose. Miami shot 39 percent from the field and 30 percent from behind the three point line. Lynn Kidd was the only bright spot for Miami putting up 20 points. Austin Schwartz also had a strong game putting up 11 points, one rebound and one assist. 

Miami overall sits with a 4-13 record overall and they have gone 4-13 against the spread. Miami comes into this game averaging 76.1 points while their defense is giving up 77 points per game. The offense is ranked 155th in the league while the defense is ranked 308th. They are averaging only 59.76 field goals attempted per game which is 151st in the league. Matthew Cleveland has been the top player for Miami averaging 12.8 points while shooting 45.4 percent from the field. 

SMU Has Won Two Straight

SMU suddenly has confidence again and they have won two straight games. Two games ago against Georgia Tech they won 93-71 and in the last game against Virginia they were able to secre the 54-52 victory. Against Virginia, they held them to only shoot 34.6 percent from the field and 15.4 percent from behind the three-point line. In this game SMU is going to need to get the offense out to fast start. 

SMU comes into this game with a 13-4 record and they have gone 8-9 against the spread. SMU is averaging 82.9 points while their defense is giving up 71.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 29th in the league while the defense is ranked 192nd. They are shooting 47.27 percent from the field which is 72nd in the league. Boopie Miller has been the top player for the team averaging 14.5 points while shooting 39.9 percent from the field and 29.9 percent from behind the three point line. 

Why SMU Will Beat Miami 

Miami (FL) has lost each of its last 16 games against Conference opponents.

SMU has won each of its last five day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

SMU has won the first half in four of its last five day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Miami vs SMU Prediction

SMU hasn’t been dominant with covering spreads this season but they are the much better team in this game. Miami’s defense is giving up over 77 points per game and they are going to be even worse here. SMU is averaging 82.9 points per game and they are going to have no issue running up the score here. Miami’s defense will have no answer, and SMU will cover the spread here. 

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SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to build on a 93-71 win over Georgia Tech last time out to improve to 12-4 on the year. After this game, SMU will head on the road for a game against Miami.

Mustangs Looking To Heat Up

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 14.6 PPG and 5.9 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.4 PPG and Matt Cross has 10.9 PPG with a team-high 8.3 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10.6 PPG with 3.6 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.2 PPG with 6.8 RPG and Yohan Traore has 8.6 PPG with 4.6 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.6 PPG with 2.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.7 PPG on 47.5% shooting from the field, 38.2% from three, and 72.7% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won eight of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Virginia has lost five of its last six games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Virginia Recap

The Virginia Cavaliers come into this game looking to bounce back after an 88-65 loss to Stanford last time out to fall to 8-8 on the year. After this game, Virginia will head on the road for a matchup with the Louisville Cardinals.

Cavaliers Lose 3^rd Straight

Isaac McKneely leads the Cavaliers in scoring with 12.3 PPG along with 3.6 RPG and 2.9 APG while Elijah Saunders has 11.9 PPG with 5.3 RPG as the only other double-digit scorer for Virginia so far this season. Andrew Rohde has 9.1 PPG with 3.5 APG to lead Virginia in assists and Jacob Cofie has 8.3 PPG with a team-high 5.5 RPG to lead the Cavaliers on the glass so far this season. As a team, Virginia is averaging 61.6 PPG on 43.2% shooting from the field, 37% from three, and 75.1% from the foul line this season.

Why the Virginia Cavaliers will win

• Virginia has won 24 of its last 25 night games at John Paul Jones Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of SMU’s last 11 night games has produced a total of 137+ points.
• Thirty-three of Virginia’s last 36 night games at John Paul Jones Arena have produced a total of 134 or fewer points.

Virginia vs SMU Prediction

I’m on the under in this game. We just saw this matchup between these two teams not that long ago, and it finished with 114 points in a 63-51 win for SMU I think we see another low-scoring battle here. I lean towards SMU, but laying points on the road in a fairly tough environment in Virginia isn’t the ideal situation. But this is going to be a slow-paced, ugly, defensive-minded affair and I think that the under is the way to go once again. Give me the under here.

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Georgia Tech Recap

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets come into this game looking to bounce back from a 62-55 loss to Syracuse last time out to fall to 8-8 on the year. After this game, Georgia Tech will head home for a matchup with Clemson.

Yellow Jackets Looking For Rebound Performance

Lance Terry leads the Yellow Jackets in scoring with 15.8 PPG while Baye Ndongo has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 6.9 RPG to lead the Yellow Jackets in rebounding. Javian McCollum has 11.9 PPG with 3.3 APG and Naithan George has 10.2 PPG with a team-high 6.3 APG to lead the Yellow Jackets in the assist department as well this season. As a team, Georgia Tech is averaging 75.9 PPG on 44.5% shooting from the field, 33.9% from three and 67.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets will win

• Georgia Tech has won four of its last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking for a bounce back of their own after an 82-67 loss to North Carolina last time out. After this game, SMU will head on the road to take on Virginia.

Mustangs Drop Back-To-Back Games

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 15.3 PPG and 5.7 APG while Chuck Harris has 11.8 PPG and Matt Cross has 10.9 PPG with a team-high 8.4 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10 PPG with 3.7 RPG and 3.2 APG along with 2.2 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.4 PPG with 6.6 RPG and Yohan Traore has 8.3 PPG with 4.7 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.5 PPG with 2.9 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.1 PPG on 47.3% shooting from the field, 37.1% from three and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won 10 of its last 11 day games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Five of Georgia Tech’s last six day games have produced a total of 149 or fewer points.
• Four of SMU’s last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) have produced a total of 163+ points.

SMU vs Georgia Tech Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I just feel like the Mustangs are the better team. I’d be lying if I didn’t say that it was a bit alarming how badly the Mustangs got beat up by North Carolina while Georgia Tech took them down to the wire, but the Mustangs still play their best ball at home, and I’m not sold on this Georgia Tech team. When I back an underdog, conference play or not, I want a team that’s going to hit their free throws, put points on the board when the clock is stopped and not leave points at the table. In conference play, Georgia Tech is the worst free throw shooting team in the conference, hitting just 62.9% from the foul line this season. I think that SMU does enough and takes advantage of a bad Georgia Tech team to snag the win and cover at home in this one.

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SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to bounce back from an 89-62 loss to Duke last time out to fall to 11-3 on the year. After this game, SMU will head home for a date with Georgia Tech.

Mustangs Looking To Rebound

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 15.8 PPG and 5.9 APG while Chuck Harris has 11.4 PPG and Matt Cross has 10.7 PPG with a team-high 8.2 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass and cap off the scoring in double figures up to this point in the year. Karlo Oquendo has 9.8 PPG with 2.9 RPG and B.J. Edwards has 9.6 PPG with 3.8 RPG and 3.4 APG. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.8 PPG with 6.6 RPG and Yohan Traore has 8.7 PPG with 4.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 85.4 PPG on 48.4% shooting from the field, 38% from three, and 72.7% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last seven games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• North Carolina has lost four of its last five night games.

North Carolina Recap

The North Carolina Tar Heels will be out to build on a narrow 74-73 win over Notre Dame in their last matchup to improve to 9-6 on the year. After this game, North Carolina will head on the road for a matchup against the NC State Wolfpack.

Tar Heels Looking To Build Momentum

RJ Davis leads the Tar Heels in scoring with 17.7 PPG along with 4 RPG and 4.1 APG while Seth Trimble has 14.8 PPG with 4.3 RPG and Elliot Cadeau has 10.7 PPG with 3.1 RPG and 6.1 APG on the year to lead the Tar Heels in assists. Ian Jackson has 14.9 PPG with 3.4 RPG to round out the group of double-digit scorers for North Carolina so far this season. Jalen Washington also has 6.3 PPG with a team-high 4.9 RPG to lead North Carolina in rebounding up to this point in the season. As a team, North Carolina is averaging 84.6 PPG on 47.4% shooting from the field, 31.4% from three, and 74.7% from the foul line this season.

Why the North Carolina Tar Heels will win

• North Carolina has won each of its last nine games at Dean E. Smith Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of North Carolina’s last 11 games against Conference opponents has produced a total of 163 or fewer points.
• Thirty of SMU’s last 34 night games have produced a total of 166 or fewer points.

North Carolina vs SMU Prediction

I’m going to take a shot at SMU and the points in this one. I still want the Seth Trimble situation cleared up if I’m going to back North Carolina in any way, shape, or form, and he’s still a big loss if he can’t go against an SMU team that’s packing the same punch that the SMU football team did on the gridiron this season. SMU looks like a team that’s relishing their opportunity to play in the SEC and they’re a team I suspect could be a dark horse to make some noise if they get the bounces. I’ll take SMU and the points here.

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Duke Recap

The Duke Blue Devils come into this game looking to add to their 88-65 win over the Virginia Tech Hokies last time out to improve to 11-2 on the year. After this game, Duke will head home for a matchup against the Pitt Panthers.

Blue Devils Looking For 8^th Straight Win

Cooper Flagg leads Duke across the board in scoring, rebounding, and assists with 16.9 PPG, 8.2 RPG, and 3.7 APG while Kon Kneuppel has 12.2 PPG with 3.5 RPG and 2.8 APG as well this season. Tyrese Proctor has 11.4 PPG with 3.5 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Duke so far this season. Isaiah Evans has 9 PPG while Sion James has 8 PPG with 4.5 RPG and Khaman Maluach has 7.9 PPG with 5.2 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Duke is averaging 79.6 PPG on 46.9% shooting from the field, 35.6% from three, and 75.1% from the foul line this season.

Why the Duke Blue Devils will win

• Duke has won each of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• SMU has lost each of its last seven games against AP-ranked opponents.

SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to add to their 98-82 win over Longwood last time out. After this game, SMU will head on the road to take on the North Carolina Tar Heels.

Mustangs Win 7^th In A Row

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 15.4 PPG and 5.9 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.2 PPG and Matt Cross has 10.7 PPG with a team-high 8.2 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. Karlo Oquendo has 10.2 PPG and B.J. Edwards has 10.2 PPG with 3.9 RPG and 3.5 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.8 PPG with 6 RPG and Yohan Traore has 8.9 PPG with 5.1 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 87.2 PPG on 49.6% shooting from the field, 39.1% from three, and 74.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last seven games.

Total Points Facts

• Each of SMU’s last six day games against AP-ranked opponents has produced a total of 145 or fewer points.
• Eleven of Duke’s last 12 road day games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 143 or fewer points.

SMU vs Duke Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I think Duke is a formidable team for sure that’s going to be at the top of the ACC as they are more often than not. However, this is also an SMU team that’s replicating the same kind of success the football team had this season It’s probably going to fly a bit under the radar in the ACC this season. If this game’s at Cameron Indoor, I’d have a much easier time being talked to Duke, but I think the Moody Coliseum is going to be rocking for this game. I think at worst SMU keeps it close so give me SMU and the points.

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The Mustangs lost to BYU 18-15 in game three this year, then hit a nine-game win streak. Those victories were over TCU, Florida State, Louisville, Stanford, Duke, Pittsburgh, Boston College, Virginia, and California. SMU fell in their next outing versus Clemson, though.

In the ACC title game versus the Tigers, SMU was down 24-7 by halftime. The Mustangs got better from there but ultimately fell in a tough one 34-31. QB Kevin Jennings threw for 304 yards, three scores, and an interception. Tops in rushing was Brashard Smith with 24 carries for 113 yards.

Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview

Over on the Penn State side, they opened the year with seven straight wins before a tough loss 20-13 versus Ohio State on November 2. The Lions would then beat Washington, Purdue, Minnesota, and Maryland before another loss to Oregon.

Matched up against the Ducks in the Big Ten Championship, the Nittany Lions faced a 38-24 deficit by the fourth quarter. Penn State made a game of it but eventually lost 45-37. Drew Allar tossed for 226 yards, three scores, and an interception. Kaytron Allen led the rushing attack on 14 carries for 124 yards and a touchdown of his own.

Penn State vs SMU Prediction

I’m staying with Penn State. The Nittany Lions have been great all year and really tested an excellent Oregon team in their last outing. Penn State finished with 523 yards (297 rushing) and 28 first downs in that one but did have a couple of interceptions to sour the day. The Nittany Lions have a pretty consistent offense these days; they’ve scored 35 or more points in four of the last five outings and average 35.2 points per game this year. Penn State boasts a balanced attack with 246.5 yards per game and 27 scores through the air alongside 202.2 yards per game and 28 scores rushing.

As for SMU, they were able to hang 458 yards and 28 first downs on Clemson in their ACC Championship loss, but similarly had a couple of turnovers (one pick; and one fumble). The Mustangs average 39.9 points per game themselves but on average, they rely a bit more on the pass (267.0 YPG; 27 TDs) than they do the run (176.1 YPG; 29 TDs). Saturday’s matchup is bound to be a great one to watch, but in the end, I like Penn State to stymie the Mustangs offense just enough to cover.

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LSU Tigers Betting Preview

LSU beat LA-Monroe, Alabama State, Kansas State and Charleston Southern in their first trio before a loss to Pittsburgh. Since then the Tigers have recovered on wins versus UCF, Northwestern State, Florida State and Florida Gulf Coast.

Matched up against FGCU on Sunday, the Tigers jumped out to a 42-27 halftime edge. LSU was outscored 44-38 the rest of the way but ended up winning 80-71. Daimion Collins led the team with his 18 points and five rebounds.

SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

Over on the SMU side, they lost to Butler and Mississippi State with wins over Tarleton State, Florida A&M, UNC Greensboro and Prairie View in their first half-dozen outings. Wins over Cal Baptist, Washington State, Alabama State and Virginia have come since then.

Last weekend in the Virginia game, the Mustangs were up 30-28 going into the second half. SMU hit a 33-23 run the rest of the way in a 63-51 win. Kario Oquendo came off the bench to lead the team on 21 points with six rebounds.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last four games.
• LSU has lost three of its last four games played at neutral venues.
• SMU has won the first half in 14 of its last 16 games against non-Conference opponents.

Why the LSU Tigers will win

• LSU has won eight of its last nine games.
• SMU has lost four of its last five games against the Southeastern Conference.
• LSU has won the first half in five of its last six games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

SMU vs LSU Prediction

I’m staying with LSU. The Tigers are fresh off a fairly routine win over Florida Gulf Coast, hitting 50 percent from the field with 36 rebounds. The 14 turnovers didn’t help, but the experience was good for several guys down the bench. That makes 77 or more points in four straight games (all wins) for LSU.

As for SMU, they posted a middling 42.9 percent from the field against an even colder Virginia team (34 percent) alongside 12 turnovers in their last matchup. The 63 points wasn’t characteristic of the Mustangs this year, though; they’ve hit 70 points in every other outing so far. That said, LSU’s ceiling is higher. The Tigers should cover (and maybe win) this one if they play to their capabilities.

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs are 7-2 this season after they defeated Alabama State by a score of 101-72 in their last game. SMU led 49-39 at the half and they scored 52 points in the second half for the blowout win. The Mustangs shot 47.8% from the field, 34.5% on three-pointers, and 73.5% on free throws in the game. Kario Oquendo led SMU with 20 points and two rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Mustangs defeated Washington State by a score of 77-60 and Cal Baptist by a score of 79-77. SMU has scored 88.3 points per game and they have allowed 71.8 points per game, while also averaging 43.3 rebounds and 16.4 assists per game this season. Boopie Miller is averaging 15.6 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game, while SMU is shooting 48.1% from the field, 74.7% on free throws, and 37.5% on three-pointers this year. 

Virginia Cavaliers Betting Preview

The Virginia Cavaliers are 5-3 this year after they lost to Florida by a score of 87-69 in their last game. Virginia only trailed 39-35 at halftime, but they allowed 48 points in the second half in the loss. The Cavaliers shot 45.6% from the field, 38.1% on three-pointers, and 90% on free throws in the game. Elijah Saunders led UVA with 19 points and five rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Cavaliers defeated Holy Cross by a score of 67-41 and Manhattan by a score of 74-65. Virginia has scored 63 points per game and they have allowed 62.3 points per game, while also averaging 32.1 rebounds and 14.4 assists per game this season. Isaac McKneely is averaging 13.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game, while Virginia is shooting 44.9% from the field, 71.4% on free throws, and 38.7% on three-pointers this year. 

Why SMU will beat Virginia

• SMU has won eight of its last nine day games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas).
• SMU has won the first half in each of its last six games at Moody Coliseum (Dallas) against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Matchup/League Facts

• SMU ranks T8th among Division 1 teams for rebounds per game this season (43.3).
• SMU ranks 10th among Division 1 teams for points per game this season (88.3).
• Virginia ranks 364th among Division 1 teams for pace this season (60.7).
• Virginia ranks T2nd among Division 1 teams for opponent free throws made per game this season (8.1).

SMU vs Virginia Prediction 

SMU comes into this game looking for their fourth win in a row, and they are scoring over 88 points per game to start this season. The Mustangs do have losses to Butler and Mississippi State, and they have not beaten anyone good, so it is tough to tell how good this team is. Virginia has three blowout losses against Tennessee, St. John’s, and Florida, but they do have a decent win over Villanova. Virginia might have a great defense, but I can’t trust their offense to score at all. Take SMU to cover at home. 

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs are 11-1 (8-0) this year after they defeated California by a score of 38-6 in their last game. SMU led 21-0 at halftime and scored the last 17 points in the game to pull away for the win. The Mustangs outgained Cal by a total of 415-254, won the turnover battle 1-0, and went 3-10 on third down in the game. Kevin Jennings threw for 225 yards and two touchdowns, while Brashard Smith rushed for 68 yards and one score. 

Prior to that win, the Mustangs won eight games in a row, with six of those wins coming by double digits. The SMU offense has scored 40.7 points per game with 177.9 rushing yards and 263.9 passing yards per game, while the defense has allowed 19.8 points per game this season. Kevin Jennings has completed 66.7% of his passes for 2,746 yards, 19 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, while Brashard Smith has rushed for 1,157 yards and 14 scores this year. 

Clemson Tigers Betting Preview

The Clemson Tigers are 9-3 (7-1) this season after they lost to South Carolina by a score of 17-14 in their last game. Clemson led 14-7 in the fourth quarter, but they allowed the last 10 points in the game for the loss. The Tigers were outgained by a total of 432-419, won the turnover battle 3-2, and went 7-15 on third down in the game. Cade Klubnik threw for 280 yards and one interception, while Phil Mafah rushed for 66 yards on 20 carries. 

Prior to that loss, the Tigers won three games in a row against The Citadel, Pittsburgh, and Virginia Tech. The Clemson offense has scored 35.7 points per game with 275.1 passing yards and 190.6 rushing yards per game, while the defense has allowed 21.6 points per game this season. Cade Klubnik has completed 64.2% of his passes for 3,041 yards, 29 touchdowns, and five interceptions, while Phil Mafah has rushed for 1,078 yards and eight scores. 

Why Clemson will beat SMU

• Clemson has won nine of its last 10 games against conference opponents.
• SMU has lost four of its last five games in December.
• Clemson has covered the spread in each of its last five games against conference opponents at neutral venues.
• The team ranked 8th in the AP Poll has failed to cover the spread in four of its last five games.
• Clemson has won the first quarter in each of its last six games against conference opponents at neutral venues.
• Clemson has won the first half in each of its last seven games against conference opponents at neutral venues.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Clemson’s last seven December games against top-10 AP-ranked teams has gone UNDER the total points line.
• Four of SMU’s last five games in December have gone UNDER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

• SMU ranks 1st among FBS teams for H1 points per game this season (22.8).
• SMU ranks 4th among FBS teams for rushing yards allowed per game this season (95.8).
• Clemson ranks 1st among FBS teams for average point differential in first quarters this season (+8.4).
• Clemson ranks 5th among FBS teams for Q1 opponent points per game this season (1.7).

SMU vs Clemson Prediction 

SMU comes into this matchup with one of the best records in the country and they have won nine games in a row. The Mustangs have dominated their last two opponents, but they haven’t played a good team since beating Louisville back on October 5th. Clemson does have three losses on the season and they barely got by Pittsburgh a few games ago, but they were tested with opponents like Georgia and South Carolina this year. This should be a very good game to watch, but I think Clemson has the advantage and I think their defense will be the difference. Take the Tigers here. 

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Cal Recap

The Cal Golden Bears come into this one looking to build on a 24-21 win over Stanford last time out to improve to 6-5 on the year.

Golden Bears Trying To Finish Regular Season Strong

Fernando Mendoza has thrown for 3,004 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions on 68.7% passing while Jaivian Thomas has 598 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns. Kadarius Calloway rushed for 124 yards while Jaydn Ott has 264 rushing yards and 4 TDs as well on the year. Jack Endries has a team-high 48 receptions for 555 yards and 2 touchdowns while Nyziah Hunter has 35 receptions for 493 yards and 5 touchdowns. Trond Grizzell has 384 receiving yards while Jonathan Brady has 378 receiving yards and two more receivers have 200+ receiving yards as well this season. On defense, Teddye Buchanan has a team-high 105 total tackles with 5 sacks while Xavier Carlton has a team-high 9 sacks on the year. Nohl Williams has a team-high 7 interceptions this year while Marcus Harris has a pair of interceptions. As a team, Cal’s defense has combined for 31 sacks and 17 interceptions on the year.

Why the California Golden Bears will win

• California has won five of its last six games in November.
• The road team has covered the spread in five of California’s last six games.

SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to fortify their case to the college football playoff committee after improving to 10-1 with a 33-7 win over Virginia last time out.

Mustangs Surging To ACC Title Game

Kevin Jennings has thrown for 2,521 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions on 66.7% passing while Preston Stone has 346 passing yards, 4 touchdowns, and an interception on 59.1% passing. Brashard Smith has a team-high 1,049 rushing yards along with 13 touchdowns while Roderick Daniels Jr. has a team-high 460 receiving yards on 24 grabs. Key’Shawn Smith has 451 receiving yards with 4 TDs and Jordan Hudson and Moochie Dixon each have 300+ receiving yards including Hudson’s 5 touchdown grabs. Three more SMU receivers have 200+ receiving yards as well this season. On defense, Isaiah Smith has a team-high 6.5 sacks while Jahfari Harvey has 5.5 sacks and Ahmaad Moses and Isaiah Nwokobia each have a team-high 3 interceptions. As a unit, SMU has combined for 32 sacks and 14 interceptions as well on the year.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last 17 games against conference opponents.
• California has lost each of its last 11 games against AP-ranked teams.
• SMU has covered the spread in five of its last six home games against conference opponents.

SMU vs Cal Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I really wanted to take a shot on Cal as a double-digit underdog as that’s where the Golden Bears have been money under Justin Wilcox. However, the Mustangs haven’t secured anything yet, and while they’re in according to the latest college football playoff rankings, the Mustangs want to keep winning by margin in case they don’t take home the ACC conference championship. Cal had their big win to get bowl eligibility against Stanford last week and there’s no motivation for them to play spoiler here. Give me SMU.

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs beat Cap Baptist, lost to Mississippi State, and they play Alabama State, Virginia, and LSU next. The SMU Mustangs are averaging 86.1 points on 49 percent shooting and allowing 73.6 points on 39.9 percent shooting. Boopie Miller is averaging 17.1 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Chuck Harris is averaging 12.4 points and 2.6 assists. B.J. Edwards is the third double-digit scorer and Samet Yigitoglu is grabbing 5.4 rebounds. The SMU Mustangs are shooting 8.5 percent from beyond the arc and 73.9 percent from the free throw line. The SMU Mustangs are allowing 34.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 36.6 rebounds per game. SMU will face Alabama State following this game.

Washington State Cougars Betting Preview

The Washington State Cougars beat Eastern Washington and Fresno State, and they play Nevada, Boise State, and Missouri State next. The Washington State Cougars are averaging 87.1 points on 49.4 percent shooting and allowing 76 points on 42.6 percent shooting. Nate Calmese is averaging 17.9 points and 3.6 assists, while Cedric Coward is averaging 17.7 points and 7 rebounds. Dane Erikstrup is the third double-digit scorer and Isaiah Watts is grabbing 4.1 rebounds. The Washington State Cougars are shooting 35.1 percent from beyond the arc and 73.9 percent from the free throw line. The Washington State Cougars are allowing 31.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 37.4 rebounds per game.

Why the Washington State Cougars will win

• Washington State has won each of its last 10 Wednesday games.
• Washington State has won the first half in each of its last eight games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Washington State vs SMU Prediction

The SMU Mustangs are finding ways to win games for the most part, but they’re not rising to the occasion, and it feels like they’ve done just enough to skate by. SMU barely beat Cal Baptist, didn’t look good against Miss State, and didn’t show up against Butler. The Washington State Cougars have the offense to bully SMU if the Mustangs don’t come to play. I’ll roll with Washington State to get the job done.

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SMU Mustangs Betting Preview

The SMU Mustangs are 4-1 this year after they defeated Prairie View by a score of 110-69 in their last game. SMU led 51-46 at halftime and added 59 more points in the second half for the blowout win. The Mustangs shot 50% from the field, 48% on three-pointers, and 77.4% on free throws in the game. Matt Cross led SMU with 17 points and 12 rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Mustangs lost to Butler by a score of 81-70 but did win the first three games of the season. SMU has scored 91.8 points per game and they have allowed 70.6 points per game, while also averaging 44 rebounds and 18.4 assists per game this season. Boopie Miller is averaging 18.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 6.2 assists per game, while SMU is shooting 48% from the field, 75.8% on free throws, and 38.9% on three-pointers this year. 

Mississippi State Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Mississippi State Bulldogs are 4-0 this season after they defeated Utah by a score of 78-73 in their last game. Mississippi State trailed 39-28 at halftime but won the second half by a total of 50-34 for the win. The Bulldogs shot 35.8% from the field, 24% on three-pointers, and 72.7% on free throws in the game. Josh Hubbard led Mississippi State with 23 points and two assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Bulldogs defeated SELA, Georgia State, and West Georgia to start the season. Mississippi State has scored 88.5 points per game and they have allowed 64.5 points per game, while also averaging 39.5 rebounds and 18.8 assists per game this season. Josh Hubbard is averaging 21.8 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, while Mississippi State is shooting 48.5% from the field, 69.4% on free throws, and 33.3% on three-pointers this year. 

Why Mississippi State will beat SMU

• Mississippi State has won each of its last nine Friday night games against non-conference opponents.
• SMU has lost five of its last six night games against the Southeastern Conference.
• Mississippi State has won the first half in 13 of its last 15 night games against non-conference opponents.

SMU vs Mississippi State Prediction 

Mississippi State comes into this matchup looking to start the season with a 5-0 record, but they needed a big second-half comeback to get by Utah in their last game. SMU has four wins against pretty bad competition, but they did lose by double digits against Butler two games ago. Both teams are shooting about 48% from the field and are similar defensively, but I have to give the edge to Mississippi State, as SMU lost by double digits to the only decent team they have played. 

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Should SMU Be Getting More Attention?

SMU could end up being a playoff team, and it feels like still no one is talking about how well they have played this season. In the last game, SMU faced off against Boston College and they were able to secure the 38-28 victory. Kevin Jennings completed 24 of his 35 passes for 293 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. Brashard Smith ran wild and he finished with 18 carries for 120 yards and a touchdown. SMU has been putting up an average score of 39.9 points per game. This ranks them as 6th overall from an offensive standpoint so far this season in college football. Their defense has allowed for an average of 22.4 points scored per game, ranking them in the 45th spot, defensively.

Virginia Blown Out in Last Game

Virginia sits with a 5-5 record overall but they were blown out in the last game. Virginia faced off against Notre Dame and they scored only 14 points while the defense gave up 35 points and that led to the blowout defeat. Tony Muskeet wasn’t good enough and he completed only 9 of his 14 passes for 103 yards. Virginia has been averaging 24.8 points per game so far. This places them in the 91st ranking amongst other offenses. Their defense has given up an average of 27.5 points per game, putting them in 86th place amongst other defenses in college football. 

Why Virginia WIll Cover Against SMU

• SMU has failed to cover the spread in 14 of its last 15 road games in November.
• Virginia has covered the spread in four of its last five games against AP-ranked teams.

Virginia vs SMU Prediction

Give me Virginia getting the points here. Yes, Virginia struggled in the last game but their defense at times has been good, and their defense is going to step up in a big way here. On paper, this looks like a layup for SMU, and they are on the road. Virginia is going to get better quarterback play, and it’s going to be Virginia that is going to end up covering the spread. Back the Cavaliers against the spread. 

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